Men Also Have A Pelvic Floor! Here's Why That's Important

The pelvic floor is a part of the body that’s most often associated with women – even though everyone has one! You might think of a mother discussing issues related to pregnancy and childbirth, or practicing Kegels. But, a man’s pelvic floor is just as crucial to his health and wellbeing. These muscles, ligaments and connective tissues support your pelvic organs, which encompass more than the uterus – they cradle the bladder and rectum, and are therefore essential in proper bowel, bladder and sexual function.

As such, here’s why a man’s pelvic floor is just as important: 

1. Urinary Continence – Just as women do, men rely on their pelvic floor muscles to prevent urinary incontinence. They control the flow of urine and prevent leaking, especially during activities that often trigger the urge to urinate – sneezing and coughing included.

2. Sexual Function – The pelvic floor is involved in maintaining good sexual function; weak or dysfunctional muscles in the pelvic floor can thus lead to erectile dysfunction or premature ejaculation. 

3. Bowel Function – Strong pelvic floor muscles help you in normal bowel function, preventing issues like constipation and fecal incontinence, something that is difficult to treat if left unattended. 

4. Support for Your Pelvic Organs – Without a healthy pelvic floor to support pelvic organs, a man could experience weakness and dysfunction in these muscles which gradually develops into pelvic organ prolapse. Here, organs descend into the lower pelvis, which can cause countless health complications.  

How do I keep my pelvic floor healthy as a man?

In much the same way to women, men should be regularly carrying out pelvic floor exercises that strengthen the pelvic floor. Contract and relax your muscles to improve their strength and control. Implementing this simple practice into your daily life will benefit you and your pelvic floor in future.

 Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is also important, particularly a diet rich in fibre, if you want to keep a pelvic floor in good condition! Some fibre-rich foods include lentils, broccoli, quinoa, oats, almonds, avocadoes and even dark chocolate.

When you have health problems that exacerbate issues with your pelvic floor, then we would recommend seeking out a pelvic floor therapist who can assess your pelvic floor function and provide an appropriate course of treatment. 

Oftentimes, treating pelvic floor involves a course of physical therapy – like more detailed pelvic floor exercises, but also methods like electrical stimulation or diaphragmatic breathing when muscles are hypertonic – and, in serious cases, medication. 

For a pelvic floor therapist, you can trust to restore your health and wellbeing, seek our mens health physio and expert physio services with On Point Physio in Auckland. We help you to manage problems in your body, before they become more serious. Contact us for more information, today.